(Yellowknife, October 5, 2020) With COVID-19, getting a flu shot is more important than ever. NWT residents are encouraged to get flu shots to protect themselves from influenza and reduce the chance they will need to receive a COVID-19 test this flu season.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, flu clinics will be a bit different this year. Residents who are experiencing symptoms of a respiratory illness are asked to refrain from attending the vaccinations clinics until their symptoms have resolved. 

Clinics will be delivered in line with current public health recommendations and restrictions. Health and social services authorities are planning to provide a number of options for residents, who wish to get their flu vaccination, including:

• walk-in clinics with social distancing and masking precautions
• booked appointments at local health centres
• online appointment bookings in Yellowknife
• early access clinics for our essential workers and most vulnerable residents

By getting the flu shot, residents can do their part to limit the spread of influenza in our territory. This is especially important this year with COVID-19 since these two viruses have similar symptoms.

The CPHO recommends that NWT residents get their flu shots as incidences of respiratory infections will increase in the coming weeks as more people gather indoors at school and work. By getting vaccinated, residents can help lessen the burden on the territory’s testing system, which will help healthcare professionals trace and respond to COVID-19 cases quickly.

Contact your health centre or visit www.nthssa.ca/flu for specific details and information on how you can access the flu vaccine in your community.

Physical distancing will be in place and we are asking everyone to wear masks. 

“By getting a flu shot you can help protect yourself and those around you. You can also help additionally this year by reducing your chances of needing a COVID-19 test and in turn reducing the demand put on our health system.”

-    Sue Cullen, Chief Officer, Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority

Fast Facts:

The NWT is preparing for higher demand in flu shots this year by doubling the dosage ordered. We will be receiving 28,000 doses of flu vaccine this year. 

Process changes regarding public health measures to prevent COVID-19 will change some of the regular flu clinic processes and opportunities. More details regarding community specific advice on how to access the flu shot can be found at www.nthssa.ca/flu 

Media Contact
David Maguire
Manager, Communications
Northwest Territories Health and Social Services Authority
TEL: 867-446-3084
EMAIL: david_maguire@gov.nt.ca